"His injuries are life-threatening and doctors are to switch off his life support machine today."

Lancashire Police said on Monday afternoon, after the hearing, that no decision has been made yet regarding Mr Rhodes’ life support.

A 16-year-old boy is charged with causing grievous bodily harm and appeared in court this morning. The youth, who cannot be named but lives in central Blackpool, has been bailed until Thursday when he will appear before the resort's Youth Court.

It is alleged he landed a single punch to Mr Rhodes outside the Costcutters store on Exchange Street, Blackpool, on Saturday.

The court heard the boy is likely to face a more serious charge if his alleged victim loses his life.

The conditions of his bail means the youth cannot contact a list of 15 adult and youth witnesses.